With expert insights from Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Whether you're jetting off on vacation or heading out for business, travel can be exciting. However, it can also disrupt your daily health routines, including your oral care habits. From airport snacks to hotel tap water and late-night schedules, it's easy for dental hygiene to take a backseat. But maintaining your oral health is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
We spoke with Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a family and cosmetic dentist in Henderson, NV, about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy no matter where your journey takes you.
“Travel disrupts routines, but your oral health shouldn't be one of the casualties,” says Dr. Perrone. “With just a little preparation, you can protect your smile anywhere in the world.”
Pack Your Smile Essentials
A healthy trip starts with a well-stocked dental travel kit. Dr. Perrone recommends keeping the following items handy in your carry-on or overnight bag:
A soft-bristled toothbrush (travel-sized or full)
Fluoride toothpaste
Dental floss or interdental brushes
Alcohol-free mouthwash
Sugar-free gum or xylitol mints
A portable water flosser, if space allows
“Don't rely on hotels to supply dental products,” she warns. “They're often low quality or missing entirely. Bringing your own ensures consistency.”
Also, if you wear a nightguard, retainer, or aligners, don't forget their cases and cleaning tools. Store them in a clean, ventilated container to prevent bacteria buildup during travel.
Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink
Travel often means indulging in new foods, sugary treats, or acidic drinks. While enjoying local cuisine is part of the fun, Dr. Perrone suggests moderation when it comes to:
Sticky or hard candies
Sugary cocktails or sodas
Acidic foods like citrus and vinegar-based dishes
Frequent snacking without rinsing
“It's not just what you eat—it's how often,” she says. “Frequent sugar exposure fuels bacteria, even in small amounts.”
She also recommends chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after meals to stimulate saliva and help neutralize acids when brushing isn't possible. This can help reduce the risk of cavities and keep your breath fresh during your travels.
Water Matters
When traveling abroad, be cautious about the water quality—especially if you're brushing your teeth. In areas where tap water is unsafe to drink, use bottled or filtered water to rinse and brush.
Dehydration during flights or in hot climates can also reduce saliva production, essential for keeping bacteria in check. Dr. Perrone encourages staying well-hydrated and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can dry out the mouth.
Stick to Your Routine—Even on the Road
Late nights, jet lag, and unfamiliar settings can tempt travelers to skip brushing or flossing, but consistency is key.
“You'd be amazed how many cavities begin during vacation season,” says Dr. Perrone. “Missing just a few days of brushing and flossing can allow plaque to harden into tartar.”
Try brushing twice daily and flossing at least once—even if it's just before bed after a long travel day. If you're in transit and can't brush, rinsing your mouth with water is better than nothing.
Schedule Dental Visits Before Big Trips
If you're planning an extended or international trip, Dr. Perrone advises seeing your dentist beforehand.
“You don't want a dental emergency in a country where care may be unfamiliar or expensive,” she says. “A quick checkup ensures everything is stable before you go.”
Addressing minor issues like sensitivity, small fillings, or loose dental work can help prevent unexpected problems while abroad. Neglecting these issues could lead to more serious dental problems during your trip, which can be both uncomfortable and costly.
Final Thought: Travel Light, But Don't Forget Your Smile
Taking care of your teeth on the go doesn't require a suitcase full of gear—just some preparation and mindful habits. By keeping oral health in mind, you'll return from your travels with memories, not dental problems.
“Your smile is with you in every photo, every meeting, every conversation,” Dr. Marielaina Perrone says. “It deserves to travel well too.”
About the Expert
Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is a trusted cosmetic and general dentist in Henderson, Nevada. With over 20 years of experience in smile makeovers, preventive care, and facial aesthetics, she is passionate about helping patients maintain confident, healthy smiles at home and around the world.
